CPP/News: Villagers confront credit-grabbing army battalion in Bulusan, Sorsogon

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 15, 2020): Villagers confront credit-grabbing army battalion in Bulusan, Sorsogon



Soldiers from the 31st IB drew flak for their attempt to take over the distribution of relief goods by local barangay officials in a village in Bulusan, Sorsogon on Tuesday, April 14. Reports reached the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province that village officials refused to hand over the said relief goods as these were solicited by village officials.

The NPA officers in the area remarked that the soldiers wanted to grab credit. “Gusto nilang palabasin sa mga tao na sa kanila galing ang mga relief goods.” (The soldiers wanted the residents to believe that the relief goods came from the AFP.)

The village officials asked that the name of their barangay be witheld fearing reprisals from the AFP troops.

The nearly month-long military lockdown has resulted in reduced incomes and food supply in most Bulusan villages. To alleviate the situation, barangay officials have raised relief goods for their constituents independently of the Mayor’s office.

Soldiers occupying the barangay under the so-called “Community Support Program” then demanded that the local executives hand over the goods. The soldiers wanted to take photos of each beneficiary. The village officials refused.

The 31st IB is currently under the command of Lt. Col. Eric H. Culvera.

The same report indicated that at least eight other villages in Bulusan are either occupied by the 31st IB or covered by its combat operations. This brings to 28 the number of military-occupied and patrolled villages in Sorsogon since GRP President Rodrigo Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire supposedly in line with his government’s response to the Covid-19 disease.

In these villages, residents are banned from going their farms. A curfew from 5 p.m. to 6 a.m. is imposed, with limits for minors set earlier at 1 p.m.. The NPA said soldiers accosted a farmer on his way home from his farm.

https://cpp.ph/statement/villagers-confront-credit-grabbing-army-battalion-in-bulusan-sorsogon/

CPP/News: Press Release | Duterte ceasefire lapses with more violations in Southern Tagalog

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 16, 2020): Press Release | Duterte ceasefire lapses with more violations in Southern Tagalog



Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s unilateral ceasefire declaration has lapsed on Thursday midnight, but only with more violations perpetrated by his armed forces in Southern Tagalog.

In a report, the New People’s Army (NPA)-Southern Tagalog disclosed that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to occupy and operate in at least 157 villages in the entire region.

In Quezon alone, the military and police continues to conduct counterinsurgency operations in at least 105 villages. The AFP also continues to operate in at least 13 villages in Palawan, 8 in Oriental Mindoro, 6 in Occidental Mindoro, 4 in Rizal, and 2 in Laguna.

From March 28 to April 2, the AFP and PNP also conducted four raid and pursuit operations against Red fighters resulting in armed encounters. Three of these were in Quezon Province, with one other in Rizal.

https://cpp.ph/statement/press-release-duterte-ceasefire-lapses-with-more-violations-in-southern-tagalog/

CPP/ Larab | Abril 11, 2020

Eastern Visayas regional propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 16, 2020):  Larab | Abril 11, 2020


2020 Eastern Visayas Larab Regions

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2020/04/16/larab-abril-11-2020/

CPP: Kalatas | Marso 2020

Southern Tagalog regional propaganda publication posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 16, 2020): Kalatas | Marso 2020


2020 Kalatas Regions Southern Tagalog

Download PDF

https://cpp.ph/2020/04/16/kalatas-marso-2020/

CPP/News: Press Release | Squandering funds amid crisis: AFP uses helicopters, drops anti-communist leaflets in Mountain Province

Propaganda news article posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 16, 2020): Press Release | Squandering funds amid crisis: AFP uses helicopters, drops anti-communist leaflets in Mountain Province

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has once again displayed its utter insensitivity by squandering public funds in its relentless counter-insurgency campaign in Mountain Province amid the Covid-19 crisis.

This was the reaction of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) to information about the military flying helicopters to drop propaganda leaflets in the residential communities in Sagada and Besao towns last Sunday.

According to reports, the military employed two UH1J helicopters to drop leaflets placed inside clear plastic wrappers with one piece of candy each. The leaflets urged “NPA fighters” to surrender and maliciously accused the revolutionary movement of exploiting the public health crisis.

“The very action of the AFP, however, proves that it is the one guilty of its own accusation,” said CPP Chief Information Officer Marco L. Valbuena. “The military has not relented in its costly counterinsurgency campaign even when there is an acute lack of funds for strengthening the health system and providing aid to millions of people displaced by the lockdown,” he added.

The military spends about P110,000/hour in operating these one UH1J Huey helicopters.

“Flying these helicopters for counterinsurgency show complete contempt for the plight of Cordillerans amid the pandemic. Recently, tons of vegetables were left to rot and dumped in Mountain Province as farmers are unable to sell their produce due to the Duterte regime’s restrictive lockdown.

https://cpp.ph/statement/press-release-squandering-funds-amid-crisis-afp-uses-helicopters-drops-anti-communist-leaflets-in-mountain-province/

CPP/Information Bureau: CPP leadership orders extension of ceasefire

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 16, 2020): CPP leadership orders extension of ceasefire

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

INFORMATION BUREAU

APRIL 16, 2020

The highest body of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) ordered yesterday the New People’s Army (NPA) to extend the nationwide ceasefire for 15 more days to “prioritize the fight against the pandemic and ensure the safety, health and well-being of everyone.”

In its order posted today at the CPP’s website, the CPP Central Committee extended to 11:59 p.m. of April 30 its earlier ceasefire declaration which started on March 25.

The CPP ordered the units of the NPA and the people’s militias “to continue to desist and cease from carrying out offensive military actions against the armed units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).”

The aim of the ceasefire extension, according to the Party CC, “is to ensure quick and unimpeded support to all people requiring urgent medical, health and socioeconomic assistance in the face of the public emergency over the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The Party said all revolutionary forces are “ever ready to cooperate with all other forces and elements to achieve this objective.”

It also reiterated the call for the “urgent release” of all political prisoners and for declaring a general amnesty. It also expressed desire for the resumption of the NDFP-GRP peace negotiations.

The Party leadership commended all units of the people’s army and people’s militias for their discipline in observing the ceasefire order and shifting priority to the anti-Covid-19 campaign.

It said that the Party’s ceasefire order has been observed “despite the difficulties and dangers brought about by the continuing occupation of AFP combat troops of guerrilla zones and base areas, the widespread and intense intelligence and psywar operations, and the attacks mounted by the AFP’s strike forces against detected NPA units.”

The leading body of the Party reminded all NPA units to “maintain strictest secrecy” and not allow themselves to be exposed to AFP attacks.

The recent armed encounters which the AFP misreport as NPA ceasefire violations are all a result of the offensive actions of the AFP.

During the ceasefire period, all NPA units must strictly limit themselves to active defense operations which shall be carried out only in the face of imminent danger and actual armed attacks by the enemy forces.

https://cpp.ph/statement/cpp-leadership-orders-extension-of-ceasefire/

CPP/Central Committee: Order extending the unilateral ceasefire declaration

CPP-Central Committee propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Apr 15, 2020): Order extending the unilateral ceasefire declaration

CENTRAL COMMITTEE

COMMUNIST PARTY OF THE PHILIPPINES

APRIL 15, 2020

“The aim of extending the nationwide ceasefire is to ensure quick and unimpeded support to all people requiring urgent medical, health and socioeconomic assistance in the face of the public emergency over the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Translation/s: Pilipino

In the face of the continuing public health crisis over the Covid-19 pandemic, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) hereby directs all commands and units of the New People’s Army (NPA) and the people’s militas to extend the nationwide ceasefire up to 11:59 p.m. of April 30, 2020.

Units of the people’s army and people’s militias are ordered to continue to desist and cease from carrying out offensive military actions against the armed units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP) and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).

The aim of extending the nationwide ceasefire is to ensure quick and unimpeded support to all people requiring urgent medical, health and socioeconomic assistance in the face of the public emergency over the Covid-19 pandemic. We must prioritize the fight against the pandemic and ensure the safety, health and well-being of everyone. In this situation, the revolutionary forces remain ever ready to cooperate with all other forces and elements to achieve this objective.

This extension order also supports the outstanding call of the United Nations for a global ceasefire to enable everyone to concentrate resources to surmount the present public health crisis. In line with this, the Party and NDFP also reiterate the call for justice and urgent release of all political prisoners and for declaring a general amnesty. The Party also continues to desire the resumption of peace negotiations between the NDFP and the GRP.

The Central Committee commends all units of the people’s army and people’s militias for their discipline in observing the ceasefire order and shifting priority to the anti-Covid-19 campaign despite the difficulties and dangers brought about by the continuing occupation of AFP combat troops in the guerrilla zones and base areas, the widespread and intense intelligence and psywar operations, and the attacks mounted by the AFP’s strike forces against detected NPA units. The recent armed encounters which the AFP misreport as NPA ceasefire violations are all a result of the offensive actions of the AFP.

During the ceasefire period, all NPA units must strictly limit themselves to active defense operations which shall be carried out only in the face of imminent danger and actual armed attacks by the enemy forces.

The NPA and all revolutionary forces must maintain strictest secrecy in their movement and maintaining security because the AFP has further intensified its intelligence operations and brazenly attack the exposed units of the NPA. We must also carefully guard against the surprise and treacherous large-scale attacks of the fascist regime against the revolutionary forces and the people.

A solid indicator of the fascist threat is the sustained and intensive drone surveillance in difference parts of the countryside; non-stop RCSP operations for mass surveillance, profiling, red-tagging and psywar in villages under the AFP’s focused attacks; and the deliberate refusal to touch the gargantuan budget for intelligence, military operations and for procurement of arms and military hardware despite the acute lack of funds and resources for fighting the epidemic and providing support to those affected by the lockdown.

All units of the Party, the people’s army and the revolutionary mass organizations must continue to closely monitor the attacks and other offensive and provocative maneuvers of the units and troops of the AFP-PNP-CAFGU. These must be reported expeditiously and in detail to the higher leading Party committees and commands of the people’s army, and be promptly exposed to the public.

https://cpp.ph/statement/order-extending-the-unilateral-ceasefire-declaration/

AFP-CRS: 97IB Prevents CPP-NPA Planne Attack on Flagship Projects in Zamboanga Norte

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Apr 16, 2020): 97IB Prevents CPP-NPA Planne Attack on Flagship Projects in Zamboanga Norte

The Army’s 97th Infantry Battalion prevented the New People’s Army (NPA) planned attack in an ongoing flagship project in Barangay Pange, Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte.

www.afpcrs.com | #AFPyoucanTRUST #StayAtHomeSaveLives #Covid19PH #WeHealAsOne #BeatCovid19



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/3195909123761123/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

WESTMINCOM: Abu sayyaf courier yields, hands over firearm in Basilan

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Facebook Page (Apr 16, 2020): Abu sayyaf courier yields, hands over firearm in Basilan

A courier of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group under Furuji Indama yielded to the troops of the 64th Infantry Battalion in Basilan on April 15, 2020.

Muhammad Batuken Balakat, a.k.a. Muadz, a resident of Barangay Tongsenghal, Sumisip, Basilan voluntarily surrendered at 64IB headquarters in TARBIDC Compound, Barangay Tumahubong of same municipality.

"The successful surrender is a result of the collaborative efforts of the Alpha company of 64IB, barangay officials of Etub-Etub, Sumisip, and the peace-loving citizens of the municipality," said Brig. Gen. Fernando Reyeg, Joint Task force Basilan Commander.

Balakat handed over one garand rifle with magazine and one round of ammunition.

"Amid our battle against this invisible enemy, COVID 19, Team WestMinCom sustains its peace efforts in order to achieve long-lasting peace in our area of operation," said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Hence, we are greatly happy with the unwavering support extended by our stakeholders and the people in our campaign to end terrorism," the commander added.

"Likewise, we urge the remaining ASG militants and other lawless elements to return to the mainstream society," he added.

#AFPyoucanTRUST
#WeHealAsOne
#teamwmc
#teamkapayapaan
#wmcyourprotector
#wmcyourpartner
#wmcyourfriend

6th Infantry Division - Kampilan 601 Infantry - Unifier Brigade 602nd "Liberator" Brigade 603 Persuader Brigade 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade Unang Marinong Brigada Team Tabak Joint Taskforce Basilan HARIBON TEAM Magbalantay Cmo 11 Infantry Division "Alakdan Troopers" Gagandilan Siete 1102 Infantry "ganarul" Brigade 1st BCT Aegis Kwatromarinobrigada Sulu Jtf Tawi Tawi Indomalphi Joint Task Force Zamboanga Joint Task Force Zamboanga Virtual Center Unbeatable Ranger Battalion Matatag Battalion Tow Westmin Cmo Tow Westmin Pio Naval Forces Western Mindanao Cmou Western Mindanao Katapatan Pangkatihan-Dagatan 33rd Infantry Makabayan Battalion 57th Infantry Masikap Battalion 1st Mechanized Lakan Battalion 90th Infantry Bigkis Lahi Battalion Seventh Infantry Tapat Battalion Reliablecmo R Section 6IB Redskin 37IB - Conqueror Battalion 40 Infantry "Magiting" Battalion 2nd Mechanized Infantry-MAKASAGBattalion OnlyOurBest MbltFive 38th Infantry We Clear Battalion Breathe Heart Ruel Casanes Ar-ar Galvez Afman Rosales Jr. Antriosanjh Espenida Nenea Sancus Princy Necessitas La Independencia Filipinas




https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1708025922672790/1708019466006769/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1708025922672790/1708019442673438/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1708025922672790/1708019446006771/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/photos/pcb.1708025922672790/1708019576006758/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/afpwestmincom/

Kalinaw News: Army continues to enhance preventive measures in quarantine control points in Surigao Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News  (Apr 16, 2020): Army continues to enhance preventive measures in quarantine control points in Surigao Sur (By 4th Infantry Division)



Taking preventive measures is a must and invariably better in order to avoid getting infected with Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19). The Philippine Army always ensures the welfare of everyone, particularly in the current circumstance our country is facing due to the pandemic. To ensure the public welfare, frontliners in various quarantine control points must guard themselves and took preventive measures thoroughly to protect them from being infected so as to continuously perform their duty.

Further, wearing of PPEs will undoubtedly protect themselves while performing their respective duties.

With kindness and support from the Fellow Filipino, they have donated two thousand (2,000) pieces of face mask and twenty (20) pieces of overall suit to 75IB personnel especially to those assigned in quarantine control points of the Inter-Agency Task Force against COVID-19.

Lieutenant Colonel Warren C Munda, Commanding Officer of 75IB expressed his gratitude especially to the Fellow Filipino who appreciated the sacrifices and dedication of the frontliners in the fight against COVID-19 and for their donated PPEs in support to the welfare of the frontliners.

The country is in shortage of PPEs needed by the frontliners all-over the country, but then the government is doing its part to get sufficient equipment to provide to the frontliners.

With the unity and cooperation of the people in the community, Fellow Filipino who supported the country through donations of PPEs and foods to our frontliners remarkably contribute to the fight against the global health crisis.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-continues-to-enhance-preventive-measures-in-quarantine-control-points-in-surigao-sur/

Kalinaw News: CTG member, Killed in Another Armed Clash in Sorsogon

Posted to Kalinaw News  (Apr 16, 2020): CTG member, Killed in Another Armed Clash in Sorsogon (By 9th Infantry Division)



CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur- A member of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) was killed in an armed encounter between the government troops and the communist terrorists in Brgy Tongdol, Irosin Sorsogon province around 7:40 in the morning, Thursday, April 16.

Joint elements of 31st Infantry Battalion (31IB), 1st and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company were conducting security operations in response to a report about the gathering of the CTG members in the area when the clash broke out.

Firefight lasted for ten minutes before the enemies scampered towards different directions leaving their dead comrade behind.

One M16 rifle, several anti-personnel mines, and other subversive equipment and supplies were recovered in the encounter site.

Hot pursuit is still on-going.

Joint Task Force Bicolandia (JTFB) under MGEN FERNANDO T TRINIDAD AFP commended the troops for the successful operation and assured the public of the military’s relentless efforts to prevent the CTG from spreading harm and violence in the region amidst the ongoing battle against COVID-19.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/ctg-member-killed-in-another-armed-clash-in-sorsogon/

Kalinaw News: NPA’s Top-Spy in Southern Tagalog Falls

Posted to Kalinaw News  (Apr 16, 2020): NPA’s Top-Spy in Southern Tagalog Falls (By 2nd Infantry Division)



CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal — The regional intelligence officer of the NPA’s Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee was apprehended in Brgy Bunducan of Nasugbu, Batangas by joint AFP-PNP forces who served a search warrant at around 9:30 a.m. Thursday.

The suspect was identified by government forces as Lamberto Asinas alias Baste who will face charges for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition at Regional Trial Court Branch 27 of Sta Cruz, Laguna under Executive Judge Cynthia R Marino-Ricablanca.

The troops were able to recover from the suspect’s possession a Caliber .45 pistol, numerous ammunition, one hand grenade and subversive documents.

Colonel Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Brigade which has operational jurisdiction over Region 4A, said that the combined security forces were able to locate the terrorists’ safe house through reports from the neighborhood who observed suspicious activities over the past few weeks.

“We were able to confirm his identity through the help of several former rebels who worked with him before, one of whom was included in the mass surrender last March 29 during the NPA’s 51st Anniversary,” added Col Rillera.

He ended his statement by saying that following the mass declaration of the communist terrorists as Persona Non Grata in CALABARZON, “the NPAs no longer have a safe haven to stay in the region because the people are no longer afraid and no longer supportive of them as proven by this arrest” by virtue of legal document duly issued by a court of law.

Per the military’s record, Batangas activated their Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or PTF ELCAC on September 9 last year which, as of the moment, resulted to 625 localities in the province issuing resolutions banning the presence of the terrorists in their areas.

According to Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division which covers Southern Tagalog, Asinas is the 11th NPA leader who is considered as high value target to be neutralized since 2019.

It can be recalled that 2ID was directly involved in the arrest of Jaime Padilla, alias Diego, the NPA’s Southern Tagalog Regional Spokesman last November at the posh Cardinal Santos Medical Center as well as the killing of Armando Lazarte alias Pat Romano in Antipolo City last December.

Major General Burgos lauded the involved soldiers and policemen for their “commitment and dedication to win the peace and ensure the safety and security of our constituents while performing frontline duties in the 340 Quarantine Control Points established in our area to contain the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus.”

He assured the people that “despite the prevailing health crisis, RTF-ELCAC 4A will never waver in our sworn duty of ending local communist armed conflict as well as in the delivery of basic services to the grassroots of our society not only to defeat the corona virus, but more importantly, the deadlier NPA virus.”

“The NPA terrorists are now running out of space, they no longer enjoy mass base support, and they are no longer relevant to the communities, thus, expect that they will be decimated soon which will pave the way for the much coveted peace, prosperity and development that every Filipino citizen truly deserve,” ended Major General Burgos as he called upon “the few remaining NPA terrorists to put down their arms, return to the folds of law and avail the benefits from E-CLIP because we will get them regardless whether they are dead or alive.”

It can be recalled that three weeks ago, soldiers killed a certain Noel Levanta, a hardcore cadre of Metro Manila Regional Party Committee’s Regional Education Bureau, during an encounter following an NPA ceasefire violation in Brgy Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/npas-top-spy-in-southern-tagalog-falls/

Kalinaw News: JTFC rationalizes deployment of forces to cover more grounds for peace

Posted to Kalinaw News  (Apr 16, 2020): JTFC rationalizes deployment of forces to cover more grounds for peace (By 6th Infantry Division)



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Rationalization in the deployment of forces will be implemented in the JTFC Joint Area of Operations.

The strategic move is in line with the intent of Higher Headquarters for the JTFC to expand its operational reach. The existing Joint Area of Operations will remain under the JTFC responsibility. However, new areas will be delegated by higher headquarters to the JTFC. Hence, there will be movements of forces and changes in the JTFC force structure but no areas will be vacated.

Joint Task Group Kutawato will be replaced by the 1st Marine Bde. The Bde, in collaboration with the different stakeholders in the area, shall assume the current mission and functions of JTGK. 1st Marine Brigade is ably commanded by a seasoned Marine Officer, BGen Jonas R Lumawag AFP In essence, forces within Cotabato city will be beefed-up in support to the Enhanced Community Quarantine that is being implemented in the city and its adjacent areas.

Deployment of forces in the additional areas that will be assumed by JTFC will be effected resulting from deliberate planning conducted by the Task Force. Forces will be employed in accordance with their capabilities and with the peace and security requirement in the area.

“I am optimistic that the rationalization in the deployment and employment of forces in the current and to the additional areas delegated to us by higher headquarters will provide for better Command and Control thereby enhancing our continuing initiatives to fight for peace and while effectively contributing to defeat COVID19” JTFC Commander, Maj. Gen Diosdado C Carreon AFP said. 

https://www.kalinawnews.com/jtfc-rationalizes-deployment-of-forces-to-cover-more-grounds-for-peace/

Kalinaw News: Task Force Davao on relief efforts as it commemorates 17 years of serving Davaoeños

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2020): Task Force Davao on relief efforts as it commemorates 17 years of serving Davaoeños (By 10TH INFANTRY DIVISION)



Task Force Davao did not conduct the traditional celebration of its 17th Founding Anniversary which is supposed to be today.

Instead, TF Davao distributed relief goods today (April 15, 2020) to the community in the immediate vicinity of its Headquarters in Sta Ana Wharf and to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) of the Marawi Siege who are still in Davao City.

The relief goods were generated from the benevolent stakeholders of TFD and from its own budget for the Anniversary celebration. TF Davao personnel delivered the relief goods, house to house, directly to the recepients with the assistance of the purok leaders and tanods . No consolidation of people were done.

The recepients consisting of 1,900 families were given rice, canned goods, coffee, milk, milo, noodles and toothpaste.

The officers and personnel of Task Force Davao extends their utmost gratitude to everyone especially to our beloved Mayor, Inday Sara Duterte-Carpio, for the untiring support that resulted to a productive year for the unit.

As we commemorate our 17th Founding Anniversary, we commit ourselves to better serve the Davaoeños. We also cherish our noble accomplishments for the period as follows:
zero incidence of bombing or acts of terrorism due to military patrols, checkpoint operations and other security operations either unilaterally or jointly conducted with other units of the AFP, PNP and Law Enforcement Agencies .

we also embarked on the following major initiatives that changed the way we secure the City: development of Culture of Security and conceptualization and implementation of Maximum Security Zone.

security policies were also institutionalized: No Jacket Policy, No Non-transparent Water Container Policy, No parking in crowded places or parking buffer zone, Inspection Cubicles for Hijab and Abaya-wearing Individuals, clearing of shrubs and ornamental plants in public places, no drone policy and use of transparent garbage bins during big events.

Conceptualized and implemented the Kalilintad 911 to insulate the IDPs of Marawi Siege from being influenced and exploited by terrorists. This will also help prevent the development of homegrown terrorist in the City.

In support to Law Enforcement Operations, we apprehended 96 individuals on drug related violations involving a total of P11.5M worth of illegal drugs representing more than 288% increase in the monetary value of confiscated drugs as compared to last year’s accomplishment. We were able to accomplish this with zero fatality and with no Human Rights Violations.

The Task Force also serves as first responder and frontliner of the city during calamities, disasters and even during the present COVID 19 outbreak in the City thru the following Humanitarian Assistances/Disaster Relief Operations:

• numerous rescue efforts were conducted during incidence of flooding in low lying areas of the city
• consolidation, repacking and distribution of relief goods during earthquakes in North Cotabato and Davao del Sur
• delivery of relief goods to those affected by the Taal Volcanic eruption in Batangas.
• retrieval of critical and much needed PPEs from Manila and its transport to Davao City
• distribution of critical PPEs to municipalities, cities and provinces in Region 11.

At present, we assist in the implementation of the City Executive Order to contain the spread of COVID 19. We are maintaining 20 Quarantine Control Points in the city.

As we confront this difficult situation against an unseen enemy which is worse than terrorism, TF Davao renews its committment to be more responsive and relevant to the needs of Davaoeños.

“Keep Safe, Stay Home everyone!!!”

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/task-force-davao-on-relief-efforts-as-it-commemorates-17-years-of-serving-davaoenos/

KalinawTwo improvised bombs recovered in Maguindanao

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2020): Two improvised bombs recovered in Maguindanao (By 6th Infantry Division)



CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered in Guindulungan, Maguindanao yesterday morning (April 13) by the troops of 7th Infantry Battalion with the help of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The IEDs were discovered in Sitios Dungguan and Dama Kayo of Brgy Kalumamis when the troops acted on a report from a concerned civilian.

Upon technical evaluation by 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team of the Army, the IEDs were made of 60mm and 81mm mortars with electrical detonators and blasting caps filled with flash powder.

Joint Task Force Central Commander Maj. Gen Diosdado C. Carreon commended 7IB under Lt. Col. Rommel S. Valencia and the 601st Brigade under

its Officer-in-Charge, Col. Joel Q. Mamon for their latest accomplishment in the fight against terrorism. He likewise acknowledged the support of the MILF.

“The discoveries of IEDs helped in sustaining peace and order situation in Central Mindanao”, Maj. Gen. Carreon added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/two-improvised-bombs-recovered-in-maguindanao/

Clashes reported as ceasefire with NPA ends

From Rappler (Apr 16, 2020): Clashes reported as ceasefire with NPA ends (By JC Gotinga)

The military awaits orders from President Rodrigo Duterte on whether the truce will be extended as many areas remain on lockdown because of the coronavirus pandemic



GOVERNMENT FORCES. Philippine Army soldiers guarding an "enhanced community quarantine" checkpoint in Valenzuela City on March 15, 2020. Photo by Lisa Marie David/Rappler

A communist guerrilla was killed in an armed clash with government forces in Sorsogon province on Thursday, April 16, a day after the lapse of a shaky ceasefire, which both sides accused the other of violating.

Troops from the 31st Infantry Battalion under the Philippine Army’s 9th Infantry Division (9th ID) were responding to a report of a gathering of the communist-led New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in Sitio Tongdol, Barangay Gabao, Irosin municiality, when a firefight broke out at around 7:40 am.

The encounter lasted about 10 minutes, after which the rebels “scampered towards different directions and left their dead comrade behind,” said 9th ID spokesperson Captain John Paul Belleza in a statement.

Army soldiers recovered an M16 rifle, several explosives, and “subversive material” from the clash site.

The incident follows a string of other reported clashes between government forces and rebel fighters even during the ceasefire.

NDF letter to the United Nations

To stay updated on news, advisories, and explainers, check out our special coverage page, “Novel Coronavirus Outbreak.”

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported several attacks and attempted attacks by the communist-led New People’s Army (NPA) in different parts of the country throughout the duration of the supposed truce.

The NPA leadership – the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its political wing the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) – also accused government forced of breaking the ceasefire.

On Monday, April 13, NDF leader Luis Jalandoni wrote a letter to the United Nations accusing the AFP of mounting more than a dozen attacks on the NPA since March 16.

The government’s unilateral ceasefire officially began on March 19, after President Rodrigo Duterte on March 16 asked the NPA for a reprieve in fighting to allow the police and military to focus on addressing the coronavirus pandemic.

The CPP-NPA-NDF only reciprocated the truce a week later, on March 26, when the United Nations (UN) called for a global cessation of hostilities amid the pandemic.

The end of the ceasefire was supposed to coincide with the end of the “enhanced community quarantine” or lockdown enforced by the government over Luzon island.

The lockdown has been extended to April 30, but there is no word yet from Duterte whether the ceasefire is extended, too, as of this posting.

"The ceasefire declaration emanated from Malacañang. Let us await any guidance or announcement about it,” said AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo when asked whether the truce will continue throughout the lockdown.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/258141-clashes-reported-ceasefire-npa-ends

CPP-NPA extends ceasefire until April 30

From Rappler (Apr 16, 2020): CPP-NPA extends ceasefire until April 30 (By JC Gotinga)

The truce has been fraught with accusations of violations from both sides, and the government has yet to say whether it will also extend its unilateral ceasefire that ended on April 15



GUERRILLA. A member of the New People's Army paints the armed group's logo on his face to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on December 26, 2018. File photo by Alecs Ongcal/Rappler

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), extended a unilateral ceasefire until April 30 amid the coronavirus pandemic, the CPP said in a statement on its website on Thursday, April 16.

The CPP Central Committee handed down the order to the NPA on Wednesday, April 15, the last day of the initial duration of the truce declared by the communist rebel leaders on March 25.

They ordered NPA fighters “to continue to desist and cease from carrying out offensive military actions against the armed units and personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and other paramilitary and armed groups attached to the Government of the Republic of the Philippines.”

The CPP is prolonging the ceasefire to “prioritize the fight against the pandemic and ensure the safety, health, and well-being of everyone,” it said.

This comes despite its political arm, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) accusing government forces of violating the truce.

On Monday, April 13, NDF leader Luis Jalandoni wrote the United Nations (UN) a letter accusing the AFP of more than a dozen attacks on the NPA despite the ceasefire.

To stay updated on news, advisories, and explainers, check out our special coverage page, “Novel Coronavirus Outbreak.”

The AFP has likewise blamed the NPA for several armed encounters, and attempts to attack government forces on patrol duty.

Earlier on Thursday, troops from the Philippine Army clashed with a number of NPA guerrillas in Irosin, Sorsogon, killing one of the rebels.

Will the government reciprocate?

Reporters have sought the AFP for comment on the NDF’s accusations but it has not responded to queries as of this posting.

There is also no word yet on whether President Rodrigo Duterte will extend the government’s unilateral ceasefire, which lapsed at midnight on Wednesday, April 15.

Duterte first declared a ceasefire with the communist rebels on March 18 in order to free up the police and military to focus on addressing the coronavirus pandemic and enforcing the “enhanced community quarantine” or lockdown of Luzon island and other areas around the country.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana officially ordered the military to stand down on March 19.

Initially unwilling to reciprocate the truce, the CPP-NPA-NDF declared its own unilateral ceasefire that began on March 26, after the UN called for a global cessation of hostilities amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The ceasefire has been tense, with both sides claiming violations by the other, and warning their troops to remain on guard against possible attacks.

The truce was initially set to end at the same time as the lockdown of Luzon on April 14. However, the government has extended that lockdown until April 30.

The CPP-NPA’s ceasefire extension will end at 11:59 pm of April 30.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/258163-cpp-npa-extends-ceasefire-until-april-30-2020

Negros Occ. NPA leader surrenders to Phil. Army

From Panay News (Apr 17, 2020): Negros Occ. NPA leader surrenders to Phil. Army (By Mae Singuay)

A local guerrilla unit leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) voluntarily surrendered to the command group of the Philippine Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion (29IB) in Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.

The 33y-ear-old Jonel Moreno – resident of the said village – is now in the custody of the 62IB led by its commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Flores based in Barangay Libas, Isabela town.

Moreno surrendered to the army an M16 rifle with a magazine; a .45-caliber pistol with two magazines; assorted ammunitions and an ICOM handheld radio with accessories.

“The surrender of Moreno adds to the increasing number of NPA and Militia ng Bayan members who have finally woken up from the deception of the communist-terrorist group, and have decided to leave for good and avail the amnesty program of the government,” Flores said.

The NPA leader revealed that the continuous hardships, hunger and false promises of NPA leaders have prompted him to go back to the fold of the law, a press statement from the 303 Infantry Brigade (303IB) said.

According to the military, Moreno is now undergoing custodial and stress debriefing prior to his enrollment to the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) in order to receive immediate welfare and livelihood assistance and incentives for the surrendered firearms.

Meanwhile, Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte, 303IB commander, encouraged other NPA members to abandon the armed struggle, saying it is high time to leave the communist terrorist organization and avail the E-CLIP being offered by our government.

https://www.panaynews.net/negros-occ-npa-leader-surrenders-to-phil-army/

Civilian shot dead in Calatrava

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 16, 2020): Civilian shot dead in Calatrava

A group of unidentified armed men shot and killed a civilian in Brgy. Malatas, Calatrava, Negros Occidental, Tuesday.

The five unidentified suspects, armed with an M-16 rifle and .45 caliber pistols, were wearing face masks and fatigues when they waylaid a truck loaded with sugarcane bound for Brgy, Macasilao, Calatrava, the Calatrava police said yesterday.

The truck driver and passengers, including the victim identified as Joseph Lumanog, were ordered by the armed men to disembark from the cargo truck.

After identifying himself as Lumanog, when asked by one of the suspects, the victim was immediately shot in the neck and head, the police said.

Capt. Eugene Tolentino, officer-in-charge of the Calatrava Police Station, yesterday said that they are looking into the possibility that the suspects are members of a private armed group, although they are not ruling out the involvement of the New People’s Army yet.

Tolentino said witnesses told the police that they are not familiar with the armed men.

The victim was declared dead on arrival at the Calatrava Municipal Hospital, while the armed men fled on foot.

Recovered from the scene of the incident were two slugs and an empty shell of a .45 caliber pistol.

Tolentino said that the victim was reported to be a farm laborer and has no criminal record.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/April/16/topstory9.htm

100 families get aid from Army

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 16, 2020): 100 families get aid from Army (BY RHODA GRACE SARON)

One hundred poor families received relief goods from the 5th Civil-Relations Group and private sector as part of the “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko” campaign for the current health crisis.

Capt Benedick Cagatin, commander of the 51st Civil Relations Unit of CRG, led the distribution of relief goods, consisting of 15 kilos of rice, three pieces of canned goods, and two pieces of noodles for each family.

The relief goods were donated by Jeffrey Jess S. Mataro and personnel of 5th CRG intended for 100 poor families of different puroks in Barangay Doña Andrea, Asuncion, Davao del Norte in partnership with the 60th Infantry Battalion and barangay officials of Barangay Doña Andrea, headed by its chairman Al M. Sumalhag.

“We estimate that the 15 kilos for each family can be consumed until the end of the month,” Cagatin said. “We consider those beneficiaries as belonging to the poorest of the poor. Meaning, they do not have other sources of income.”

The “Kapwa Ko, Sagot Ko” is a project of the Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines with the aim of helping families affected by the COVID-19 crisis. The project aims to help poor families by providing for their basic needs until the enhanced community quarantine is lifted in the country.

For those who wish to be part of the program and extend a donation please contact the 5th Civil Relations Group at 0917-895-0975.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2020/04/17/100-families-get-aid-from-army/

NPA attacks Zambo troops in Covid drive anew

From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 16, 2020): NPA attacks Zambo troops in Covid drive anew

Communist insurgents launched attacks anew on government soldiers distributing information leaflets on the new coronavirus, or Covid-19, in the southern Filipino province of Zamboanga del Norte, officials said Thursday.

Officials said soldiers from the 44th Infantry Battalion clashed with the New People’s Army rebels in Tinuyop village in Leon Postigo town. There was no report of casualties on the military side in Wednesday’s fighting that lasted 15 minutes, said Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, the battalion commander.

The leaflets provide basic information on the virus and its symptoms, and how it spreads and how to avoid catching the deadly respiratory disease.

“Troops were tracking down the terrorists,” he said, adding, it was the 3rd time since late last month that rebel forces assaulted soldiers helping in the government information drive in the villages in Zamboanga Peninsula.

He said rebels also attacked troops on April 12 in Pange village on Zamboanga del Norte’s Siayan town and in Penaranda village in Zamboanga Sibugay’s Kabasalan town on March 21.

Col. Leonel Nicolas, Commander, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, said the rebel attacks will not hamper the military’s role in helping the government’s health efforts in the region. “Despite the recent setbacks in our campaign against Covid-19, our soldiers will continue to conduct public awareness efforts, among others in support to the Inter-Agency Task Force Covid-19,” he said.The NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging a violent secessionist campaign in the country for many decades now. (Zamboanga Post)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2020/04/npa-attacks-zambo-troops-in-covid-drive.html

AFP-PNP captures NPA Southern Tagalog intel officer

From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 16, 2020): AFP-PNP captures NPA Southern Tagalog intel officer (By AFP Southern Luzon Command)



CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, April 17 (PIA)--The joint forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police (AFP-PNP) by virtue of a search warrant, arrested the regional intelligence officer of the NPA’s Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee in Brgy. Bunducan, Nasugbu, Batangas at about 9:30 in the morning of Thursday.

The suspect was identified by government forces as Lamberto Asinas alias Baste who will face charges for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition at Regional Trial Court Branch 27 of Sta Cruz, Laguna under Executive Judge Cynthia R Marino-Ricablanca.

The troops were able to recover from the suspect's possession a Caliber .45 pistol, numerous ammunition, one hand grenade, laptop, cellphone and enemy documents.

Colonel Alex Rillera, Commander of the 202nd Brigade said the combined security forces were able to locate the terrorists' safe house through reports from the neighborhood who observed suspicious activities over the past few weeks.

"We were able to confirm his identity through the help of several former rebels who worked with him before, one of whom was included in the mass surrender last March 29 during the NPA’s 51st Anniversary," added Col Rillera.

Following the mass declaration of the communist terrorists as Persona Non Grata in CALABARZON, “the NPAs no longer have a safe haven to stay in the region because the people are no longer afraid and no longer supportive of them as proven by this arrest by virtue of legal document duly issued by a court of law.

Per the military’s record, Batangas activated the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict or PTF ELCAC on September 9 last year which, as of the moment, resulted to 625 localities in the province issuing resolutions banning the presence of the terrorists in their areas.

According to Major General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr, Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, Asinas is the 11th NPA leader who is considered as high value target to be neutralized since 2019.

It can be recalled that 2ID was directly involved in the arrest of Jaime Padilla, alias Diego, the NPA’s Southern Tagalog Regional Spokesman last November at the posh Cardinal Santos Medical Center as well as the killing of Armando Lazarte alias Pat Romano in Antipolo City last December.

Major General Burgos lauded the involved soldiers and policemen for their "commitment and dedication to win the peace and ensure the safety and security of our constituents while performing frontline duties in the 340 Quarantine Control Points established in our area to contain the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus."

He assured the people that "despite the prevailing health crisis, RTF-ELCAC 4A will never waver in our sworn duty of ending local communist armed conflict as well as in the delivery of basic services to the grassroots of our society not only to defeat the corona virus, but more importantly, the deadlier NPA virus."

"The NPA terrorists are now running out of space, they no longer enjoy mass base support, and they are no longer relevant to the communities, thus, expect that they will be decimated soon which will pave the way for the much coveted peace, prosperity and development that every Filipino citizen truly deserve," ended Major General Burgos as he called upon "the few remaining NPA terrorists to put down their arms, return to the folds of law and avail the benefits from E-CLIP because we will get them regardless whether they are dead or alive."

It can be recalled that three weeks ago, soldiers killed a certain Noel Levanta, a hardcore cadre of Metro Manila Regional Party Committee’s Regional Education Bureau, during an encounter following an NPA ceasefire violation in Brgy Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal. (CPG, PIA-4A/AFP-Southern Luzon Command)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1039210

NPA unit leader yields in NegOcc

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2020): NPA unit leader yields in NegOcc (By Nanette Guadalquiver)



SURRENDER. Jonel "Roy" Moreno surrenders to the 62nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army led by commanding officer Lt. Col. Melvin Flores (left) in Isabela, Negros Occidental on Thursday (April 16, 2020). Moreno said he decided to surrender after suffering hunger and hardships due to the unfulfilled promises of leaders. (Photo courtesy of 62nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

A local guerrilla unit leader of the New People’s Army in central Negros surrendered to the Philippine Army on Thursday.

A report of the 303rd Infantry Brigade identified the rebel as Jonel "Roy" Moreno, 33, a resident of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City.

He is now in the custody of the 62nd Infantry Battalion (62IB) led by commanding officer Lt. Col. Melvin Flores based in Barangay Libas, Isabela town.

"The surrender of Jonel Moreno adds to the increasing number of NPA and Militia ng Bayan members who have finally woken up from the deception of the communist-terrorist group, and have decided to leave for good and avail the amnesty program of the government," Flores said.

Moreno, a full-time party member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), decided to surrender through the 62IB and the 94th Infantry Battalion after suffering hunger and hardships due to the unfulfilled promises of the NPA leaders.

According to the report, Moreno also revealed the NPA's continuing exploitation of the masses in outlying communities in central Negros and the involvement of a village official in the transport of rebel logistics and ranking NPA leaders.

Moreno turned over to Flores an M16 rifle with magazine, a .45-caliber pistol with two magazines, assorted ammunition, a unit of ICOM hand-held radio.

Moreno is undergoing a custodial and stress debriefing process in preparation for his inclusion in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or E-CLIP.

Under the program, he is expected to receive immediate welfare assistance, livelihood assistance, and incentives for surrendered firearms.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of 303rd Infantry Brigade, called on the communist rebels anew to abandon the armed struggle and avail of the government program for former rebels.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100103

26 former NPA supporters surrender in Aurora

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16, 2020): 26 former NPA supporters surrender in Aurora (By Jason De Asis)



BACK TO THE FOLD OF LAW. A total of 26 former supporters of the communist terrorist group, mostly belonging to the Dumagat tribe, voluntarily surrender to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion, Philippine Army on Wednesday (April 15, 2020). Ten of them are former members of the Milisya ng Bayan (MB) and 16 were supporters of the terrorist organization Platoon 4A4 of Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC) of the New People's Army operating in the boundary provinces of Aurora, Quezon, Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. (Photo by Jason de Asis)

At least 26 former supporters of the communist terrorist group New People's Army (NPA), mostly belonging to the Dumagat tribe, voluntarily surrendered to the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion (91IB) on Wednesday.

Of the surrenderers, 10 are former members of the Milisya ng Bayan (MB) and 16 are either couriers and contacts of the terrorist organization Platoon 4A4 of the NPA's Southern Tagalog Regional Party Committee (STRPC) operating in the boundary provinces of Aurora, Quezon, Bulacan and Nueva Ecija.

Lt. Col. Reandrew P. Rubio, acting commander of the Army’s 91IB, said the surrenderers initially turned over two .38-caliber revolvers, one homemade shotgun and one homemade .22-caliber firearm during a simpe Balik-Loob program ceremony held at the Umiray covered court in Barangay Umiray, Dingalan, this province.

The 26 surrenderers pledged to withdraw their support to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) and took their oath of allegiance to the government.

Also present during the ceremony were Dingalan town Mayor Shierwin Taay, barangay chair Juanito R. Borreo, other local officials and stakeholders who are continuously supporting the program of the government to achieve lasting peace and development.

“Mayor Taay and the local officials played vital roles in encouraging the surrenderers to return to the fold of the law,” Rubio said.

He said the mass surrender was the result of the retooled community support program (RCSP) operation efforts by the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF-ELCAC) with the special participations of local officials, stakeholders and the communities.

“Our government is open for dialogue towards peace engagement, to welcome the surrender of CPP-NPA members and their supporters as a way end the local communist armed conflict in our area of responsibility,” Rubio said.

He also assured of government assistance under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) to all qualified CPP-NPA members and supporters who return to the fold of the law.

“Once again, I am appealing to other rebels to lay down their arms and surrender to authorities. Our government is here to really take care of you,” Rubio said.

The 26 surrenderers are now undergoing interview as part of the protocol to process their benefits under the E-CLIP program such as livelihood, medical, education, housing, and legal assistance.

One of the surrenderers said he was happy that they were given the chance to change their lives and correct the mistake they have committed due to deception of the CPP-NPA.

“We are also victims of the lies and deceptions of the CPP-NPA. We want peace. CPP-NPA is sowing fear and terror to the community and this is one of our reasons to surrender to proper authorities,” he said.

“I want to end armed conflicts so that no more lives would be sacrificed,” Mayor Taay said as he recalled with sadness the ambush staged against him by members of the CPP-NPA that resulted in the death of an enlisted personnel and wounding of a military officer in Sitio Singawan, Barangay Umiray, Dingalan town in this province some four years ago.

He also said the issue on poverty and lack of rightful information in the poor community must be resolved.

As a gesture of thanks to the surrenderers, the mayor, together with other local officials, led the distribution of food packs and initial cash assistance to them.

Meanwhile, Col. Andrew D. Costelo, Commander, 703rd Infantry Brigade, said the relentless joint efforts of the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police resulted in the withdrawal of support and membership to communist front organizations.

He said it is evident that the efforts of the government forces are geared towards sustaining peace and development in the area.

“The Army and the PNP are always ready to face any herculean task so as to carry on the spirit of service at all times,” he said.

Brig. Gen. Alfredo Rosario, commander of 7th Infantry Division, also expressed his appreciation for the actions taken by government troops to save the former rebels from further harm.

“As we all face an unseen common enemy, referred to as Covid-19, it is wise to unite and gear all efforts to a single strong direction,” Rosario said.

He gave assurance that the 7ID is ready always to serve and protect the people.

The surrender of the 26 former rebel supporters is the biggest number so far this year under the 7ID's areas of jurisdiction.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1100063